Katy Perry Just Brought Back the Popcorn Shirt—And Debuted a Sleek New Bob

Literally what era are we even in right now? Katy Perry’s hair is straight and dark again, but instead of the dramatic long locks she used to rock, she’s chopped them into a blunt bob. And she’s paired this new ‘do with a garment we honestly thought we’d seen the last of 15 years ago: the popcorn shirt.

Oh, do you kiddos not remember the popcorn shirt? Well, join us on a walk down Memory Lane, The popcorn shirt, also known as a “magic bubble” shirt, was a brief Y2K trend of stretchy, puckered, shiny, basically un-washable fabric Because of its size it was easy to pack, and because it didn’t really wrinkle, it seemed like a go-to for trips. That’s very different from saying they were good or cool. They were not. Much like a belted tee or a mini-vest, this was a trend best left in the past. But Katy Perry’s resurrecting it. 

Makeup artist Michael Anthony posted an Instagram of the singer and American Idol judge in her trailer, looking totally blue. Not blue as in sad, but blue the color; she’s sporting blue nails, blue eye makeup, and, yes, a blue popcorn shirt. Or is it a blue popcorn dress? Either way, it’s poppin’. (Should I see myself out? I should see myself out, right?) 

Anthony tagged stylist Tatiana Waterford in the post, who last week outfitted Perry in a skintight red leather number.

For a power performer like Katy Perry, life is a series of costume changes, some with the help of her longtime partner Orlando Bloom. At a recent event, he helped loosen the corset she wore beneath her gown so she could sing properly. At least this popcorn one stretches on its own? Honestly, it’s perfect material for singing comfort. Should all pop stars where popcorn shirts?